9 New Ways

February 12, 2023

by Deacon Andy Cirmo

This gospel reflection is based on Mathew: 5:11-12a.

9 New Ways

As I sit at feet and listen
His teaching weighs on my heart
So very different from all I knew
But so very clear from his the start

He wants me to be poor of spirit
Can I sacrifice my ego to this Way
Can I so be and act so humbly
And open my heart now, today?

He wants me to feel and to mourn
Can I open up to be so vulnerable
Letting down my shield to really feel
Can I do this, am I truly able

He wants me now to be meek
Instead of holding tight to my pride
Can I let down my ego’s shield
And reveal the truth inside

He wants me to hunger for truth
Instead of accepting as I have always
Can I be open to hear it all clearly
Will accepting this change my ways

He wants me to become merciful
Instead of being hard of heart
Can I let down my heart shield
And on this new pathway so start

He wants me to have a clean heart
In the face of all my sinful ways
Can I wash out all that impedes
To begin a change of days

He wants me to bring peace
To even those who wish me harm
Can I be this very strong
That in only prayer raise my arm

He wants me to humbly suffer
To swallow my pride during insult
Can I bear up under this pressure
Can I live with the result

He wants me to bear insult with grace
From those who laugh at my faith
Can I be strong enough to do this
And in my heart find a peaceful space

Dear Jesus you have clearly taught
That, to truly follow you
My ways are to truly change
For I am to act in the light of love
On all days, in all ways

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